This is a follow up to the March 20th Research Alert circulated to advise of an active and sophisticated cyber security campaign specifically targeting COVID-19 researchers.
Last week, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) provided additional information highlighting continued cyber threats aimed at research institutions and researchers. CSIS is continuing to monitor the threat of foreign interference and espionage with the aim of safeguarding Canada’s contribution to global COVID-19 research efforts and to address specific threats to Canadian interests and prosperity.
Canadian media outlets have also recently published stories describing these threats to ensure researchers are aware that their research may make them a target for hostile foreign state actors and cyber criminals:
- https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/cse-csis-china-covid-1.5570134
- https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-spy-agency-warns-foreign-states-trying-to-steal-covid-19-research-in/
The University of Guelph Information Security team will monitor the situation and we will continue to work with our peers and government agencies to address any specific threats to our network.
In order to protect yourself and your research, we encourage you to review the latest cyber security resources on our website (https://infosec.uoguelph.ca) including these articles which detail proactive measures that you should be taking:
- Working from Home Securely
- Working Remotely
- Tips for Secure Staff Video Conferences
- COVID 19: Stay Calm and Don't Get Scammed
As always, the Information Security team (infosec@uoguelph.ca) and the CCS Help Centre (IThelp@uoguelph.ca) are available for your questions or concerns.